
‘But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.’ – Galatians 4:4-5
My dad’s house
There’s something comforting for me about being at my dad’s house. Now I realize that everyone has different experiences growing up…and your childhood or upbringing might not be a pleasant memory. For some of you, it might be downright painful.
I can’t relate to that. My childhood memories bring me great joy today when I think of them. I mourn the fact that children are raised into adulthood without ever knowing what it is to have a loving father and mother. But I am thankful for mine.
When I’m at my dad’s house, I am totally at ease. I am not worried about feeling comfortable. I don’t put on a performance so that he will be impressed with me. No actions are taken for show. I do not question the fatherly pride he takes in me as his son.
Adoption as sons
Scripture gives us this beautiful picture of the believer’s relationship with God. He actually chooses to adopt us as his children!
Wow!
I have several friends who have adopted and, to be honest, Tabitha and I have talked about it a good bit. I have other friends who are themselves adopted. What a different perspective they are able to have on the adoptive love the Father has for us.
Just like my earthly father beams with pride, so does my heavenly Dad – but here’s the kicker:
God’s affection toward me has nothing to do with what I do and everything to do with who I am – his son!
Can you feel the weight of that difference?
Some of you reading this can’t because your earthly father blew it. He wasn’t there. He was there but you wish he wasn’t. Physical and emotional abuse. Neglect or apathy.
Many of you are locked in a struggle of trying to earn the affection and approval of the God of the universe because the approval you so desperately wanted from your own father was never realized.
It’s a Family Thing
Don’t miss the freedom that comes from the security in knowing you are God’s chosen son or daughter. God’s word says in Psalm 139 that God formed you and knew you – that even when you were unformed substance the days of your life were formed for you.
Though fractured by sin and desperately wicked when left to our own desires, the regenerate heart is precious to the Father – in spite of your sin and shortcomings.
You are a child of the King! An heir to all that he has for you! A full member of the family.
He loves you.
He has a plan for you.
He wants you to trust His unconditional love for you.
Quit trying to earn what is already yours. Stop striving to deserve what cannot be lost.